University of Pikeville Director of Social Work Graduates from CSWE Director’s Academy

The University of Pikeville (UPIKE) is proud to announce that Director of Undergraduate Social Work Program Ashton Bartley, MSW, graduated from the prestigious Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Program Director’s Academy during the organization’s Annual Program Meeting held in Kansas City, Missouri.

The CSWE Program Director’s Academy is designed to enhance the leadership capabilities of social work program directors. Participants engage in a rigorous curriculum emphasizing strategic planning, program evaluation, and faculty development to foster innovative and effective social work education.

“Completion of the CSWE provides advanced training and resources designed to enhance skills in managing and developing social work programs,” said Karen Damron, Ph.D., RN, Dean of the College of Nursing and Human Services. “As a result of her participation in the Director’s Academy, Ashton has gained insight into best practices in program administration and curriculum development that is aligned with accreditation standards, as well as effective leadership strategies, that foster a robust and impactful educational experience for students.”

UPIKE School of Social Work Chair Genesia Kilgore-Bowling, PhD, MSW, CSW, is proud of Professor Bartley’s achievement. 

“Having had the pleasure of teaching Ashton during her undergraduate education, I knew early on that she would one day be a social work educator and leader,” said Kilgore-Bowling. “The completion of the Director’s Academy will assist her in elevating the social work profession, empowering students, promoting the values and ethics of the profession, and ensuring that our undergraduate social work program produces competent, ethical, entry-level social workers committed to social and economic justice.”

Bartley, a faculty member at UPIKE since 2015, has consistently demonstrated a passion for social work education and advocacy. Her leadership in the department has led to innovative curricular developments and enhanced student engagement.

“I am honored to have been a part of the CSWE Program Director’s Academy,” said Bartley. “The experience has equipped me with invaluable tools, knowledge, and connections that I am excited to share with my colleagues and students at UPIKE.”

For more information about the School of Social Work at UPIKE, please contact Bartley at Ashtonbartley@upike.edu